Prabowo: Lunar New Year and Ramadhan Together Demonstrate Indonesia's Harmony
President Prabowo Subianto has stated that the Lunar New Year 2026 celebrations occurring alongside Ramadhan represent tangible proof of religious and national harmony in Indonesia. This message was conveyed through a video address at the peak of the National Lunar New Year Harmony Festival 2577 Kongzili celebrations on Saturday, 28 February 2026.
The President believes this moment reflects Indonesia’s identity as a diverse nation capable of living harmoniously in difference. The Lunar New Year celebrations this year also carry national significance by strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and unity.
“Lunar New Year comes alongside the sacred month of Ramadhan for Muslims. This is Indonesia’s true face. Different yet harmonious. Diverse yet one purpose,” Prabowo said.
He emphasised that Lunar New Year is not merely a religious celebration but also a moment of national significance reflecting values of togetherness, mutual cooperation, and solidarity among all citizens. The festival demonstrates that Indonesia is built by all segments of society from diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
The President stressed that a great nation does not fear difference but rather cherishes diversity as national strength. These values are reflected in the organisation of the 2026 Lunar New Year Festival held across various regions.
“This harmony lives throughout the archipelago. This is proof that Indonesian unity is not merely a slogan; Indonesian unity is reality,” Prabowo stated.
The National Lunar New Year Harmony celebrations took place simultaneously in numerous cities including Medan, Palembang, Batam, Bogor, Semarang, Solo, Surabaya, Pontianak, Singkawang, Makassar, and Manado. The activities featured diverse cultures, community participation, and spaces for cross-community fellowship.
Minister of Religion Nasaruddin Umar regarded the Lunar New Year celebrations during Ramadhan as a powerful symbol of interfaith unity in Indonesia. The festival provided spaces for cross-cultural, cross-religious, and cross-generational encounters.
“The glowing red lanterns of Lunar New Year, cultural parades, SME markets, and various acculturation performances we have witnessed today are beautiful symbols of how these two great traditions, Lunar New Year and Ramadhan, can complement each other in the spirit of togetherness,” Nasaruddin said.
He added that the National Lunar New Year Harmony initiative serves to strengthen brotherhood, foster tolerance, and reinforce the value of mutual cooperation within plural society. This moment is also expected to encourage the younger generation to further appreciate and embrace the richness of national culture.